Hawaii

[wvu_fanatic]

I am taking the family to Hawaii in April and would like to take the right equipment with in order to capture our vacation. I have a Canon 350D w/ an 18-55mm and a 75-300mm f/4-5.6. I am prepared to invest in equipment within reason. We will be taking a helicopter tour, Luau , etc... What would you guys recommend?

[FLphotoguy]

I've made several trips to Hawaii and I'm sure you and your family will have a good time. Two elements on the islands make switching lenses an opportunity for sensor dust. Water and sand. A good walkaround lens might be a wise choice. There is a thread on walkaround glass here: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=617028&highlight=walkaround

While violent crime in Hawaii is rare, petty theft is a problem. Never leave anything in a rental car that will be unattended, or at the beach.

My Hawaii photos (http://piercehaviland.com/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=21)

[Brutus123]

We were in Hawaii last September and had a great time. FLphotoguy is spot on with the warning on petty theft from vehicles that are left unattended.
The gear that I had with me was a 40D;Sigma 17-70; Canon 70-300; Manfrotto monopod plus the usual culprits of remote release, spare batteries, cards etc.
Quite honestly all I really used for 90% of he time was the 17-70. I took maybe 10 shots with the 70-300 and the other stuff remained largely in the bag (but was there if needed).
Photography opportunities abound but as is so often the case, a good walkaround lens will work most of the time.

[Hangbot]

I go to Hawaii every 6 months and lived there for a couple years. Never had a problem, and I usually travel with a camera body, 70-200 2.8IS, 24-70, 16-35, and a flash.

What are you planning on doing/seeing/going while on the island?
- If you're going to the Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center, then bring the zoom. If you're there during the evening luau, a wide aperture or IS would help - you won't have room for a tripod.
- The helicopter ride will be fun, but IMO, the windshield of the copter got in the way of 'perfect' shots. Take a couple shots, and then just enjoy the ride:) The 18-55 should be fine.

If I were to recommend a lens, it would be the 17-55 2.8 IS. Wide aperture, IS, and focal length make it a perfect walkaround on a crop-body...that is, if you don't mind the price tag.